Before the Conference

• Prepare questions to ask their teachers.
• Discuss concerns re school and teachers with your child beforehand
• Note changes with your child that the teacher should know, such as moving house, divorce, loss of job, illness or, behaviour issues.
  • Remember to take these notes to the interview.
• Ensure the school has your child's current contact details.
• Bring writing material to take notes. Look prepared and interested.

During the Conference

• Arrive early! The interview doesn’t need to be the first or only contact between you and the teacher. See if any opportunities arise to speak to them before your interview.
• Raise important concerns first. Interview time is always short. Prioritise.
• Raise your child's questions and concerns. Ask the teacher if there are questions they have for you. Don’t expect the teacher will only talk ‘to’ you, but offer information back!
• Ask when / how best to contact a teacher usually (email, phone, letters)
• Observe the school surroundings. This is where your child is learning. Does it look organised and healthy? Where do they sit? Can they see the board properly? Would they do better if moved to the front of the room, to allow them more focus?

Suggested Interview Questions

• How's their attendance?
• How's their behaviour and attitudes?
• How's their performance at any co-curricular activities they take?
• How's their academic performance? Strengths or weaknesses to note?
• How do they relate to their peers?
• How well do they complete assignments?
• How often are they assigned homework?
• How can I get more involved with their work or school life?
• How can I best find out how they are doing?
• Am I actually getting the reports at home?

After the Conference

• Discuss with your child what the teacher told you.
• Emphasise positive comments, but cover negatives as well.
• Discuss areas where improvement is needed.
• Use the conference as a catalyst for positive change.
• Make positive statements about teachers and the conference process.
• Follow up with your child's teacher.
• Consider a thank-you letter to stay in closer touch with the teachers.
• Read school paperwork brought home. Stay informed.
• Create a study time, review homework and encourage reading.
• Limit television time
• Be active at the school. Go to parent meetings, help on activities, support school events. 
  Your active involvement and interest in their school sends them positive messages.